Audi has been steadily improving its lineup by taking its traditional designs and updating them just enough to mix things up, but there are still a few models that have yet to receive this update. One such model is the S4, but by the looks of our latest spy shots, we should see the updated S4 just in time for the 2017 model year.
The spy shots don’t reveal too much, as the S4 remained under heavy cover as it lapped theNurburgring. However, figuring out the direction Audi is going with it only requires a quick glance at the 2016 A6.
On top of a new look, Audi is also working on updating its engines, so you can expect a slightly more powerful S4 for the 2017 model year. It won’t be a dramatic leap, but it’ll be enough to put some space between it and the BMW 335i and close the gap between it and the C450 AMG Sport.
Updated 09/02/2015: Our spy photographers caught the upcoming S4 testing in the Alps with no camouflage at all. As it gets pretty clear, the new S4 gets a more powerful look with bigger air intakes in the front bumper, wider side sills and a quad exhaust system. Official debut should be made in a few days at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show .
SOURCE:TOPSPEED
Spy Shots
APRIL 21, 2015 - AUDI S4 TESTING AT NURBURGRING
Exterior
The 2015 Audi S4 carries on with the older design cues, but that all looks to change by time the 2017 model year rolls around. The above images of the S4 testing on the Nurburgring are proof of this.
The updates should include a revised front end that includes updated headlights that match the rest of the recently updated Audi sedans, wider air intakes, and a widened grille. Around back, look for restyled taillight graphics, an updated bumper and new quad-tip exhaust outlets.
We may also see some new wheels to add a little pizazz to the whole deal.
Otherwise, expect the basic look of the S4 to carry over unchanged, including most of its exterior dimensions.
Interior
Like the exterior, the S4’s interior will likely only see minor updates. The majority of these changes will likely include new color combinations and maybe a few new accent trim options. Updated technology may make an appearance as well, including 4G LTE internet, updated functionality, and possibly a new 15-speaker audio system like the one we saw in the 2016 A6 and A7 .
Drivetrain
The updated S4 should also gain a new powerplant. This quick sedan will likely continue using the same 3.0-liter TFSI V-6 engine. Currently, this engine lays down 333 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. In this redesigned model, Audi will likely turn the juice up a bit. Look for output in the 340- to 350-horsepower range.
Gear changes may change from the standard six-speed manual transmission to a standard seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch unit, given Audi’s recent dislike for do-it-yourself shifting. We already saw it with the R8, so why not in the S4?
The 2015 Audi S4 sprints to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and tops out at 155 mph. While I expect the top speed to remain the same, the 0-to-60 sprint will likely fall by 0.1 to 0.2 second. Torque could rise to more than 330 pound-feet.
Prices
In 2015, the S4 comes in a pair of trim levels: Premium Plus and Prestige. The Premium Plus starts out at $48,400 and includes features like xenon plug headlights with LED daytime running lights, leather and Alcantara seating, heated seats, a 12-way power driver’s seat and a 4-way power passenger’s seat, and a 10-speaker audio system. The Prestige trim starts at $54,300, and it adds in adaptive headlights, MMI navigation with voice control, parking system plus, and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufson audio system.
Chances are that these prices will see a mild hike, particularly if the dual-clutch transmission becomes a standard feature.
Conclusion
Audi has been heading in a great direction recently with its updates, as it has taken its iconic and timeless look and updated it just enough to keep it fresh. On top of that, the German brand has been upping the power in various models, so that these refreshes are more than just aesthetic upgrades. I tip my hat to Audi for its recent updates, and I expect no less than excellence when the 2017 A4 debuts.
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